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Competition for graduate jobs is at an all time high, with an average of 50 applications per graduate position. Companies no longer rely solely on strong academics and a top tier university to make hiring decisions but, in addition, expect to hire candidates who have consistently demonstrated drive and enthusiasm, creativity, leadership skills, value diversity and get things done.

The first stage of the Career by Design journey starts in the upper sixth form at school. We believe that by increasing awareness of the graduate employment market of both parents and their children at an early stage, practical steps can be taken over a period of time to broaden a student's options and enhance employability by the point of graduation.

Introductory Sessions For Parents

Without a good understanding of the graduate employment market, it is hard to know what support and advice to offer your children. This 45 minute introductory session, aimed at the parents of upper sixth formers, is specifically designed to paint a realistic picture of the issues which graduates face and the expectations of employers. It also offers tips on how parents can manage conversations with their children about careers.

Introductory Sessions For Pupils

The journey from leaving school to university graduation will determine what employment options students have available to them. By explaining what graduate recruiters are looking for and what graduate recruitment processes involve, Career by Design can highlight the importance of gaining varied experiences upon leaving school and encourage students to reflect and learn from these experiences. This session lasts 45 minutes.

CV Clinics

By breaking down and exploring the content of CVs, Career by Design works with upper sixth formers to understand the value of academic and non-academic experiences and what value they add to employment prospects. During this 90 minute workshop, we also explore how to build and write a CV. In addition, attention is given to the importance of self-directed learning and reflection.